Beulah Melvin Allen facts for kids

Beulah Melvin Allen was a talented Diné physician. She was born on July 19, 1937. In 1952, when she was 15 years old, she made history. She became the very first Miss Navajo Nation. This was a big achievement for her and her community.

Early Life and Miss Navajo

Beulah Margaret Melvin was born in Eureka, California. When she was just 18 months old, her family moved. They went to Fort Defiance, Arizona, which is on the Navajo Reservation. Her mother worked as a nurse at the local hospital there.

When Beulah was in 7th grade, she moved back to California. She stayed there until she finished high school. In 1952, something exciting happened. Beulah was chosen as Miss Navajo at the yearly Navajo Nation Fair. Back then, the winner was decided by how much applause they received!

Education Journey

Beulah was very dedicated to her studies. In 1954, she started attending Barnard College. She planned to study there for two years. The next year, in 1955, she went to Arizona State College. Then, in 1956, she spent her third year of college at the University of Oregon.

In 1958, Beulah began studying at Cornell Medical College. She received a special scholarship from the Navajo Tribe. This scholarship helped her attend for two years. In 1961, she earned her first degree. She graduated from The University of Arizona with a bachelor's degree in anthropology.

Later, Beulah received another scholarship. This one was a fellowship to attend the University of Arizona College of Medicine. She worked hard and graduated as a doctor around the early 1980s.

Achievements

Beulah Melvin Allen achieved great things in her life. In 1981, she received a special honor. She won the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation Merit Award. This award recognized her hard work and success.

On November 14, 1969, Beulah married Richard N. Allen. They were married in Contra Costa, California.